Targeting a specific enzyme to develop new treatments for chronic pain

Pharmacological validation of adenylyl cyclase 1 as a drug target for chronic pain

NIH-funded research Purdue University · NIH-11054726

This study is looking at a new way to help people with chronic pain by testing a special target in the body that could lead to safer pain relief options without the risk of addiction.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPurdue University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (West Lafayette, United States)
Project IDNIH-11054726 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of adenylyl cyclase type 1 (AC1) as a new target for treating chronic pain, which affects millions of people and often leads to drug dependency. By using animal models, the researchers are exploring how inhibiting AC1 can reduce inflammatory and neuropathic pain. They have identified promising chemical compounds that may serve as effective AC1 inhibitors and are working on optimizing these compounds for better efficacy and safety. The goal is to develop new medications that provide pain relief without the risk of addiction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic pain conditions, particularly those who have not found relief from existing treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with acute pain or those who do not have chronic pain conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of safer and more effective pain relief medications for patients suffering from chronic pain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting AC1 for pain relief, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in chronic pain treatment.

Where this research is happening

West Lafayette, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions addictive disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.